|
|
 |
About the Contributors
The following authors and artists contributed their work to the first Teen Ink book.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Rosa Rockmore Baier is a college senior majoring in public health. She is the founder of an organ donation awareness organization and hopes to write a novel someday. She loves cats and enjoys skiing, biking and reading. Rosa's essay was in Teen Ink Magazine when she was a senior in high school. After it was published, the boy she wrote about figured out that she was the author and they subsequently dated for two years.
Amanda Batz is a sophomore who loves college life. Her most memorable recent adventure was sneaking off campus with a friend to have their ears pierced between classes! She is working toward a double major in astronomy and physics, with a minor in German. She is involved with her school's Campus Activities Board and enjoys golfing, running, reading and photography. Amanda wrote her essay as a senior in high school.
Sarah Bay is a freshman in college studying pre-med. She loves fixing up her very old Saab and has raised over $7,000 for her solar-powered race car team. She and her three sisters love taking pictures of each other, and the photo she took while a sophomore in high school was shot when one of her sisters was playing dress up. She dedicates it to another sister, Kristen, who is the "real photographer in the family."
Caitlin Bennett is a junior in high school. She plays the clarinet with the band, is a member of the drama club, and runs on the cross country and indoor- and outdoor-track teams. She also volunteers at a daycare center and local thrift shop. Caitlin believes every day is a fresh experience and is inspired by life and the ways people live it. To her, "life is the most pure form of art, and the end result is our masterpiece."
Erik Bernstein is a freshman in college who is interested in studying special education and psychology, and is considering a career in counseling. He enjoys creative writing, baseball and making home movies with his family and friends. Erik still remembers the horrible events of his family's home invasion, even though it happened five years ago. He continues to appreciate all that he has in life.
Melissa Bizub is in the ninth grade. She enjoys playing soccer and has lived, breathed and loved horses since the age of four. She currently competes in barrel races, and will begin other events soon. Her family even rehabilitated a horse scheduled to be slaughtered. Melissa's essay was first published in Teen Ink magazine last year. She dedicates it to her mother and father, who have always meant so much to her.
Christine Brasch is a college junior majoring in music education and studio art, her two passions. She created her piece for a high school assignment. She had gone to a park where she saw the "most beautiful kid who was so tired and just sat." She was able to make a rough sketch and then created her scratchboard. Christine plays trumpet in various bands and loves to listen to jazz. She is thankful for this opportunity to be published again.
T.K. Broderic wrote his essay during his senior year. He is now a college sophomore studying English and business. He enjoys intramural sports and follows professional teams. T.K. works as a volunteer counselor at a summer camp for children whose lives have been touched by AIDS. He keeps a picture of his dad on his dresser at college and looks at it daily. He is still trying to figure out the gift his father gave him.
Kimberly Burton is a junior in college studying electrical engineering. She is a Taurus and a feminist, and her biggest hobby, besides her track team, is her Web page. She believes "the Internet is the greatest place for a creative mind searching for an audience!" Kim likes mountain biking, warm weather, skim milk, the color blue and the "New Yorker." Being published in Teen Ink Magazine during her senior year has kept her writing.
Tiffany Burton is a college sophomore studying business administration. She is a certified cosmetologist and she hopes to open her own salon one day. In her free time she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. The essay she wrote during her senior year in high school is dedicated to her grandmother, who taught her to write, and to Pops, who encouraged her imagination through storytelling.
Timothy Cahill wrote his fiction piece while a junior in high school. A college sophomore majoring in English, he is a member of the marching band and mock trial team, and enjoys politics and Ping-Pong. Tim's most memorable college experience has been traveling with the band to cheer on their women's basketball team in the NCAA tournament. Though the team lost, they rallied from twenty points down to tie the game with one minute left.
Geoff Carr is a senior in high school. He plays for his school's baseball and soccer teams, and enjoys both sports in his free time. He is active in a number of clubs and has a part-time job. Geoff hopes to pursue a career in marine biology after college. He shot his photo for an assignment as a sophomore. He perched on his roof and took a photo of his sister who was down below playing basketball. It is not a trick photograph!
Jinny Case wrote her essay as a junior in high school. Her brother, who is now eleven, has officially been adopted by her parents. Jinny graduated from college this spring, where she was vice president of the Student Sociological Association and a volunteer advocate at a rape crisis center. She is currently pursuing her master's in sociology. She dedicates her piece to her high-school English teacher, Leslee Mahon, who always encouraged her.
David Cevoli graduated from college with a degree in literature, and he is pursuing his master's in English literature. His interests include Spanish language and culture, jazz history, international music and cuisine, songwriting, and playing the guitar. While in college, David spent one semester studying in Salamanca, Spain and another writing and baking bread in Naples, Italy. He wrote his piece as a senior in high school.
Katherine Cincotta is a senior in high school. In addition to writing, she enjoys playing soccer and pitching for her school's varsity softball team. She loves art and takes classes in drawing and painting outside of school. Katherine wrote her poem during her junior year. She hopes to pursue teaching or writing at a liberal arts college and dedicates her poem to the memory of her grandmother.
Jennifer Clarke loves teaching, and is working on publishing a children's book that she wrote and illustrated. She graduated from college this spring with a degree in elementary education and art. Jenn wrote her essay during her senior year in high school. Her mother's death remains the most significant event in her life and it has directed her on the path she follows today. She dedicates her piece to her mother.
Jennifer Cohun wrote her fiction piece as a sophomore in high school, where she was involved with drama, field hockey and student government. She is in her first year of college and enjoys studying English, learning about the environment and cooking - especially baking pastries and desserts. Jenn spends her spare time walking and hiking in the woods, camping, writing and drawing in pen and ink.
Jennifer Coleman is in the U.S. Air Force and has lived in many areas of the United States and abroad. She has discovered in her travels that abusive relationships are more common than she ever imagined. Since she wrote her essay as a senior in high school, her message has remained the same: "You are not alone. Pick up the phone or walk into a clinic and start the first day of the rest of your life. Good luck, my prayers are with every one of you."
La Toya Collins still loves to play basketball. While in high school she was on the varsity team and traveled across the country with her summer league. She is now a freshman in college studying economics and accounting. She enjoys hanging out with her friends, dancing, shopping and watching movies. Toya wrote her essay while a junior in high school, and thanks her mom and dad for teaching her the game.
Helen Comber is a sophomore in high school. She is a member of the swim team, drama club, chorus, Model U.N., national history day and the superintendent's advisory council. She enjoys playing the piano, writing and singing with her band, Haven. Helen thanks her band members and friends from CSTF for all their love and support. She dedicates her essay to her grandpa, Victor, and the memory of her grandma, Evelyn.
Danielle Compere is a junior in college studying government and political science. She hopes to pursue a law degree specializing in civil rights and constitutional law. She likes reading (her favorite author is Toni Morrison), dancing, writing poetry, playing basketball and listening to R&B and hip-hop. Danielle wrote her essay as a freshman in high school. She thanks her parents and brother for their love and support, and all her friends for always being there.
Seth Compton is a college sophomore majoring in film and theater. In his free time, he enjoys participating in community service projects and studying Spanish. His interest in soccer has continued from high school, where he was co-captain of the soccer team. In high school, Seth was also involved in theater and the newspaper, and was a member of the National Honor Society. He took his photo during his junior year.
Jessica Consilvio is a college sophomore pursuing her interest in theater. She participates in everything from acting to stage management. She finds inspiration for her photography on the coast with its surrounding beauty. Her most memorable experience was the month she spent in Australia, "the most wonderful place on earth," with three of her brothers. Jess created her cartoon as a senior, when she felt overwhelmed - much the way she still feels in college.
Paul Constant was published in Teen Ink Magazine many times while in high school. Since then he has studied English and sociology, and self-published four comics and three journals. His most memorable experiences include visiting Graceland where he wept at Elvis' grave, meeting the President of Ireland and Scotty from "Star Trek," and being shoved aside by Hunter S. Thompson while working as the mall Easter bunny.
Kristen E. Conway is a college junior studying photojournalism and history. She is an assistant photo editor for an independent student newspaper, and hopes one day to work for the Associated Press or "Sports Illustrated" magazine. Kristen enjoys baby-sitting and watching movies. She continues to write and is working on several longer pieces, including a screenplay. She wrote her fiction piece as a senior in high school.
Abigail Cook is a sophomore in college majoring in English. She is an avid tennis player and hopes to pursue a career in journalism. Her photograph, shot during her junior year in high school, was the result of an accident. When she was developing her photograph, she used water that was too warm, which consequently "burned" the film and created the finished look.
Mary Mattila Cooper has a degree in music and works in state government. While in college, she played the clarinet in several groups and was conductor for a symphonic wind ensemble. She is active in her college alumni admissions program and enjoys Web design, reading, writing and spending time with her Maine Coon cat, Dexter. Mary wrote her poem during her senior year in high school.
Jennifer Corbett is still good friends with the boy she wrote about in her essay, which was first published when she was a junior in high school. Jen will be graduating from college this spring with a degree in advertising and photography. She is a member of the advertising club, and enjoys art, snowboarding and skiing. One of her most memorable experiences was the summer she spent volunteering in a rainforest reserve in Monte Verde, Costa Rica.
Jillian Cote and her three best friends have upheld their pledge and reunited at the same restaurant for the last two summers. Now a freshman in college, she wrote her essay as a junior in high school, where she was a member of the track team, president of the student council, and co-editor of the yearbook. Jillian also enjoys music, and was the lead trumpet for her school's award-winning marching and jazz bands.
Christina Courtemarche has since overcome her problems with incredible effort. She is happy to say, "the miserable fifteen-year-old who wrote the piece is unrecognizable to me. It's a wonderful feeling." Christina is a junior in college studying computer science and mathematics on a full scholarship. In her free time, she enjoys playing guitar, reading and writing short stories.
Kristin Cronkhite is a political science major at a small college where she enjoys tennis and running. She likes to write and listen to music, and plans a missionary trip to Latin America. College has been a "life-changing experience," making her realize that life is "how much you love and how hard you try to do good" rather than acquiring money or academic degrees. Kristin took her photo while a junior in high school.
Lindsay Danner wrote her poem during her junior year in high school, where she was involved in track and field, band, forensics and debate. Now a college sophomore, she is studying advertising and public relations. In addition to being published in Teen Ink, one of Lindsay's greatest writing accomplishments was completing her novella, "Adia's Lyric," while a senior in high school.
Mark Denoncour wrote his fiction piece in the eighth grade. A high school senior now, he runs on his school's winter and spring track teams. He also volunteer tutors adults to improve their reading skills. During the summer, Mark spends most of his time outdoors observing nature, where he believes, "the most beautiful things in life are to be found." In his spare time, he enjoys reading and writing.
Alissa Deschnow wrote her essay while she was a sophomore in high school. She currently works and plans to go to college in the near future. Alissa also volunteers for her church. She says, "My life isn't that exciting, but it's mine."
Joseph DiPasquale graduated from college this spring with a degree in psychology and works as an Internet consultant. In college, he competed nationally as a figure skater and helped raise money for cancer research. Joseph wrote his essay during his senior year in high school. While he will always miss his father, he has learned much from his experiences and knows he has much to be grateful for and to look forward to in the future.
Kelly Donald is honored to have the best father in the world, still by her side. After graduating from college with a degree in psychology and sociology, she traveled through Europe and now works in development. She loves reading and being outdoors. Kelly uses her (scarce!) free time to collect Dr. Seuss books, catch up on precious sleep and spend time with friends and family. She wrote her piece as a senior in high school.
Jason Dunlap was first published in Teen Ink Magazine when he was a junior in high school. He was so excited he ran down the school hallway - but he tripped and fell in front of everyone and was forced to use his magazine to stop his nose from bleeding! Jason is a college junior studying journalism and public relations. He is a member of the surf club and ski team and loves to horseback ride on his parents' farm.
Sasha Dwyer will graduate from college this spring with an associate's degree in elementary education. She loves children and enjoys baby-sitting, hanging out with her friends, reading and writing. Her favorite color is purple and she absolutely loves chocolate! After graduation she hopes to work as an elementary school teacher and part-time writer. Sasha's essay was originally published during her senior year in high school.
Beth Ezell apprenticed with a horticulturist and now works doing research on herbs for a seed company that she has loved since childhood. Beth took her photo as a high school sophomore. As spring melted the winter's ice, it revealed a doll that had been left behind. She continues to love photography and writing.
Chad Fleming was taught to draw by his father, who's an artist, and since before he could write, has been drawing sometimes even on the furniture. Chad has been working for a number of years to save money so he can go to film school. He loves movies and is interested in editing, fashion and costumes. He created his piece "just for fun" while a senior in high school.
Lisa Gauches is a freshman in college studying drama, with a focus on directing musical theater. While in high school, she was captain of the swim team and president of her school's community service organization. She was also involved with the drama club and student council. Lisa enjoys acting, singing, playing the piano and writing. Her essay was originally published during her senior year in high school.
Micaela Golding graduated from a service academy this spring with a degree in political science and is stationed abroad. She plans to pursue a law degree or become an FBI agent. Her essay was first published during her senior year in high school. She still exchanges birthday cards with Nikki, although they now live far apart. Micaela has run into similar prejudices in other situations, but realizes that those who feel that way are not important.
Pamela Gorlin and her father have worked hard to improve their relationship since her poem was first published during her junior year in high school. She is studying to become an English teacher, after having graduated from college with a degree in literature and rhetoric. Pamela works as a youth advisor at her temple, is a certified aerobics instructor, and is happy to report that she is enjoying her first year as a newlywed.
Marcy Griffin is a college freshman. In high school she played on the varsity softball team as catcher and third baseman, and she was on a traveling summer team. She also played the varsity basketball, and enjoys four-wheeling and hanging out with her friends. Marcy wrote her essay during her junior year, and has lived with her aunt and uncle since her mother's death. She dedicates her piece to her best friend, Kim Pieters.
Amanda Hager is a college freshman considering a major in psychology. She has been riding horses for over five years, performing in shows and winning ribbons. Riding is one of the most important things in her life - it has taught her about responsibility and helped her self-esteem. Most of Amanda's writing is a result of her experiences with her friends or boyfriend. Without them, she would not be who she is today.
Andrew Hammer is a freshman in college studying mechanical engineering. While in high school, he was stage manager of the drama club for four productions, and nominated "Super Senior" by the school newspaper. He enjoys bicycling, hunting and mechanics. Andy dedicates the essay he wrote during his senior year to the memory of his mother.
Deanna Harris continues to spend time with her son, Keegan, who now has an adopted baby sister. Her story remains the most significant event in her life, and she hopes her decision will help others be aware that adoption is an option. Dee is now a college sophomore majoring in business. She loves to sing, take pictures, ride horses, work in stained glass and spend time with her boyfriend and family.
Brian Harrison wrote his essay during his senior year in high school. He graduated from college with a degree in American literature and minors in music, psychology and creative writing. He now works as a financial advisor. Brian has composed a small book of poems entitled "Prayers from the Sick Bed," and credits Teen Ink with helping him to embrace the creative joys of writing.
Holly Hester graduated from college with a degree in advertising and now works as director of marketing for a realty agency. She enjoys painting, drawing, writing, photography, boating, water skiing and playing tennis. Holly dedicates her essay to her brother, Scotty, who is now in high school: "You will always be my little munch, running toward me with your arms outstretched, bringing such joy and laughter into our lives."
Alex W. Hill has fully recovered from his accident, thanks to the support of family, friends and the grace of God. He graduated from college this spring with a degree in English and is pursuing his first love, the food industry, as an assistant manager of a restaurant. Alex was editor-in-chief of his college newspaper, and loves camping and outdoor activities. He wrote his essay during his senior year in high school.
Emma Hill, a freshman in college, is considering majoring in psychology. In high school, she spun the sabre for her school's competitive color guard team. She likes writing poetry, dancing, camping with her family and spending time with her two cats, Punkin and Olivia. She also enjoys seeing movies with her friends; her all-time favorite is "Dirty Dancing." Emma wrote her poem during her senior year in high school.
Kun Jia, a junior in high school, is a member of the track team, math and academic leagues, Model U.N. and Amnesty International club. Kun enjoys reading, playing the piano and spending time with her friends - though never at the mall! She loves watching cheesy movies from the 1980s and is fascinated with all things British. She hopes to visit London one day (once she's done with her SATs and college applications).
Andrea Josenhans, a college sophomore, enjoys horseback riding and writing for her college humor magazine. Her most memorable experiences include meeting Tom Hanks, Steve Guttenberg and most of the 1992 New York Yankees when, at the age of ten, she was bat girl for a day. Since writing about Brandy as a sophomore in high school, she and her family have welcomed Sheba, their new dog, into their lives.
Lori Kessler enjoys playing the piano, writing, playing volleyball and traveling whenever she has the chance. She did attend Anthony's prom, where they had the time of their lives. Anthony was voted prom king, and when he brought Lori to the bus stop for her trip home, they shared their first kiss. Although Lori is a freshman in college, they continue to speak regularly and both have the dream of reuniting one day.
Charles Key is a college sophomore majoring in engineering who loves sailing and soccer. He recalls his most memorable high school experience when his soccer team went to the state finals. He enjoys skydiving and snowboarding, and continues to enjoy photography. Always fascinated by boats, he took his photo with a Nikkormat during his senior year at a beach near his home. He was trying to capture his fascination with the reflections of the boat in the water.
Olivia King is a freshman in college studying biology, with plans to pursue medicine. She wrote her essay as a junior in high school, where she was active in volunteer work and a member of the varsity tennis and volleyball teams. Olivia believes "everything happens for a reason, no matter how hard things seem at the time. If you stay true to yourself, you can get through anything and come out a stronger person."
Melissa Kleinman is a college freshman studying communications and journalism. During the summer, she works as a counselor at the camp she has attended since she was seven. She enjoys writing, hanging out with her friends, listening to music and going to the beach. Since Melissa wrote her essay as a junior in high school, Beth has been in the hospital a few more times, but she continues to do well and enjoy life.
Jaime Koniak graduated from college summa cum laude with a degree in English, and currently is in her second year of law school. In high school, she participated in all three publications: the yearbook, literary magazine and newspaper. She was also staff writer for her college paper and a member of Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. Jaime's essay was originally published in her junior year of high school.
Michiko Kurisu, after graduating from an Ivy League university, is pursuing her love of photography by documenting her father's Japanese garden. She has lived and traveled in sixteen countries, where she has continued to "choose fast camels and avoid puff adders, to kneel and kiss the ground, as Rumi says, in a million ways." She remembers her photo was shot for the first photography course she took with her Nikon 6006. It "was a continuous discovery of seeing detail in new ways."
Michelle LaMarca remembers fondly being published in Teen Ink Magazine as a senior in high school. The experience was both a great honor and confidence booster. She is now a junior in college studying communications and English, and loves college life. Michelle is extremely active in theater, and still enjoys writing poetry, essays and short stories.
Lisandra Lamboy wrote her essay while a senior in high school. She is now a college sophomore, majoring in psychology. One of the most significant events of her life was receiving her college acceptance letter. Little did she know her life would be transformed! The people she's met and experiences she's had have totally transfigured her world view. She is truly satisfied with her life and looks forward to all that lies ahead.
Alison Lemon graduated from college magna cum laude with a degree in public relations and psychology. While in college, she was a staff writer for the newspaper, and she spent a semester studying in London. Alison is working on her master's in health science, and hopes to pursue a career in women's health and disease prevention. Her fiction piece was originally published when she was a senior in high school.
Lauren LeRea graduated from college this spring with a degree in English/rhetoric and a minor in business. She spent the summer traveling in Europe with friends, and hopes to pursue a career in film or television production. She is an accomplished pianist and recently took up the guitar. She loves music (she has a huge CD collection) and continues to write poetry. Lauren wrote her poem as a senior in high school.
Kendra Levin graduated this spring from a creative arts high school, where she took her photo as a sophomore. Deciding to "just kind of mess around with double exposure," she took a whole roll of backgrounds and then shot the roll again with a girl from her class. Having won a number of awards, Kendra plans to continue her interest in the arts, especially writing, in college.
Anamaria Lugo graduated from art school and currently works for a department store as a visual merchandising manager. She took her photographs in high school during her senior year for class assignments. Anamaria enjoys photography as a hobby although she doesn't have much time now!
Alexander Lukas is a sophomore at an art institute majoring in illustration. He drew his cartoon as a sophomore in high school, just for himself. While in high school, Alex was involved in art and theater, primarily behind-the-scenes work, including lighting, sound and set design. One of his favorite artists is illustrator Chris Van Allsburg.
Doug Mahegan is a senior in high school. He enjoys sports, and is active in football, wrestling and lacrosse. Doug took his photo using an automatic camera as a sophomore. He and his two friends were at a local beach. Having forgotten what the photography assignment was, they were just having fun when Doug snapped his amazing shot.
Dana Marlowe wrote her poem while a senior in high school. She graduated from college with a degree in communications, and a minor in sign language interpreting. While in college, she had a story published in a regional magazine and a column published in the "Chicago Tribune." She is pursuing a graduate degree in communication studies, and continues to enjoy writing and public speaking.
Jessica Mazonson is a college freshman. While in high school, she played field hockey and was very active in community service, including educating peers on racial issues, being trained to combat domestic violence, and volunteering at a woman's shelter. Jessica took her photo as a junior for a photography assignment to "show emotion." The photograph of her best friend was shot at the beach.
Robert McKee is a junior in high school and is considering a career in journalism. He spends much of his free time working at a local restaurant while maintaining honor roll standing. Like most teens, he tries to enjoy his summers. Bob thanks Teen Ink Magazine for first publishing his essay last year, and he thanks his ninth-grade English teacher, Carole Roberts, for encouraging him to submit his work for publication.
Kathleen McMillan wrote her essay as a senior in high school. She has studied theater art and film, and worked in restaurant management. She recently decided to pursue her degree to teach English, after remembering her high school English teacher, Jean Eckblad, who cried while reading Kathleen's essay aloud to the class. Kathleen dedicates her poignant piece to this teacher who meant so much to her.
Elizabeth Ames Miller is studying to be a physician's assistant. She graduated from college with a double major in mathematics and theater. Recently married, she and her husband love to spend time on the water, fishing, sailing and exploring. Her brother now owns his own business, and is happily married with seven-year-old twin sons. Lyz's essay was originally published when she was a senior in high school.
Tiffani Morehead is a freshman in college studying elementary education. She is a member of Future Educators of America, and was an All-American cheerleader and homecoming queen in high school. During the summer, she works as a lifeguard. She participates in the annual Multiple Sclerosis Walk and enjoys swimming, shopping and four-wheeling. Tiffani's mother has fully recovered since her accident and is happily remarried.
Megan Morrow wrote her fiction piece in the eighth grade. She is now a high school senior who loves dance, movement, music and a variety of arts-related activities. She has been singing and playing the flute since she was very young, and she enjoys figure skating and being in musicals. Megan is active in her school's leadership program and continues to write.
Pamela Jourdain Moul will never forget having her work published in Teen Ink Magazine while a senior in high school. She credits her teacher, Phil MacSweeney, who had a special gift for making English enjoyable. Pamela received an associate's degree this spring, and plans to pursue her bachelor's in communications. Recently married, she enjoys reading, cooking, gardening and writing in her spare time.
Kevin Robert Mulcahy graduated from college with a degree in philosophy and psychology, and now works as content developer for a dot-com. He hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in developmental neuropsychology. He enjoys playing guitar and (sporadically) studying Irish (Gaeilge) and is slowly writing a book of "philosophical fiction," just for fun. Kevin's poem was published during his senior year in high school.
Brendan Murphy, a sophomore, receives a full academic scholarship at his parochial high school. He is an honor student involved with both student government and the speech team. In addition to playing hockey, he runs track and is a member of his school's volleyball team. Brendan has worked as a lifeguard and landscaper, and also volunteers at a local Irish cultural center and as a youth hockey referee.
Kelly Murphy is a junior at an Ivy League college studying government and religion. She coaches a local swim team and is a member of a Division I women's track and field team. This fall she will be studying Spanish language, culture and history in Barcelona. Kelly wrote her essay during her senior year in high school. Although A.J. was not one of her best friends, his death remains one of the most significant incidents of her life.
Miranda Noonan graduated from college with a degree in journalism and music. She spent a year in Dublin, Ireland, and now works for an investment manager. She likes singing, theater and spending time with her nephew. Mandi wrote her essay as a senior and she dedicates it to her mother, who has been her driving force, and to her high-school English teacher, Billy Marshall, who always gave her that extra push.
Amanda O'Loughlin wrote her essay as a sophomore in high school. She graduated from college this spring with a degree in drama and anthropology. She enjoys theater and singing, and has been studying tap, ballet and jazz since she was four. Amanda is a devoted activist for HIV/AIDS education and awareneness, and has participated in the AIDS Walk since 1989. She dedicates her piece to the memory of Uncle Jay.
Shana Onigman graduated from college this spring with a degree in theater and music. She enjoys road biking, swimming, hiking, playing the violin and participating in all aspect of theater. Shana was published many times in Teen Ink Magazine while in high school, and she describes the first time with a line from a James Taylor song: "The sky opened and the earth shook."
Travis Ostrom is a freshman in college. He enjoys studying physics and dreams of being an astronaut. In high school, he founded a roller hockey team and volunteered as a hockey coach at the YMCA. Travis loves swimming, scuba diving and being near the ocean. His most memorable experience was when he caught a 350-pound marlin while deep-sea fishing with his dad. He thanks his English teacher, Nina Johnston.
Michael Pagano is a freshman in college studying biology. As photography editor of his high-school newspaper and yearbook, Michael pursued his interest in photography. He also was a varsity soccer player for three years. His photographs were frequently published in Teen Ink Magazine. The one featured in this book was taken during his sophomore year in high school.
Randolph Paulsen wrote his fiction piece as a freshman in high school, where he organized the first ever-public high-school team for the local AIDS ride and was a member of a professional break-dance troupe. He is now a freshman in college studying sociology and English. He still enjoys writing short stories and poetry. Dolph thanks his mom, dad and Jesse, and all those who gave him some slack or a helping hand over the years.
Jennifer Perry graduated from college with a degree in hotel/restaurant managment and works as an assistant general manager for a family-run hotel. Having created her drawing as a sophomore in high school, she was inspired by the recent passing of her uncle, who was also her godfather. Jennifer continues to take time to paint, draw and write. She feels it's important to remember how art and creativity have helped make her the person she is today.
Mark Phelan works for majority leader, Congressman Dick Armey. He graduated this spring with a degree in history and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He enjoys baseball, tennis and running. He wrote his essay as a junior in high school. Although the loss of his mother was a traumatic time, it has inspired and driven him to succeed in college and beyond.
Elizabeth Pile is a college sophomore pursuing a master's in occupational therapy with a minor in psychology. She loves to run, write and spend time with her family and friends. Elizabeth is involved in many activities both in and out of school, including soccer, working as a residence hall assistant and volunteering with the Special Olympics. Her essay was originally published during her senior year in high school.
Gregory Platt is a computer animation major at an art institute. His interest in art began in second grade, and he won many competitions in high school. He loved working with the drama club, where he progressed from stage crew to designing the previously rented sets. Greg created his pieces in his high-school art class. They are variations of "trompe l'oeil" (or deceive the eye) theme, which makes them realistic while giving the illusion of 3-D.
Allison Poole recently graduated from college with a degree in English and psychology. She is pursuing a master's in international service and plans a career with a nonprofit children's service organization. She enjoys hiking, going out to eat and spending time with her friends. Allison's poem was originally published when she was a freshman in high school. She dedicates it to her grandma, Barbara, who gave her a love for reading.
Heather Quinn graduated from college with a degree in psychology and a minor in education. She is pursuing her master's in education and teaching preschool part-time. She loves her students and the ways their little minds work! Heather enjoys reading, hiking and gardening, and continues to write short fiction and poetry. Her essay was originally published during her junior year in high school.
Melanie Race wrote her essay as a senior in high school. She graduated from college this spring with a degree in anthropology and minor in women's studies. She is a gay-rights activist, and while in college served on the board of an agency that serves gay, lesbian, bi, trans and questioning youth. Mel also worked in her college events office, and was an officer of the Gay/Straight Alliance and Catholic Students Union.
Kate Rakus recently graduated from college with a degree in environmental studies. She took her photo as a sophomore in high school.
Andrew Raymond is a senior in college majoring in business management. He enjoys everything about cars and hopes to make the automotive industry his future. He relaxes by playing golf and skiing. Drew took his photo as a senior in high school. It was just "a random shot" - when he walked into a room in his house, he noticed the way the sun was coming through a window and knew he should grab his camera.
Andy Redden is a senior in high school. He works as a manager at a local grocery store, and enjoys playing video games, watching movies and eating Chinese food with his girlfriend. He likes biking and reading, including every issue of his favorite comic book, "Strangers in Paradise." Andy dedicates his poem to the memory of his brother, Mike, and in gratitude for his strengthened relationship with his brother, Chaz.
Alison Reemer is a college senior studying marketing and journalism. She was a writer and editor for her college newspaper and secretary of her sophomore class, and is a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. She is an avid runner and enjoys playing volleyball. Alison wrote her essay during her senior year in high school. She dedicates it with love and respect to Grandma Bella and Grandpa Meyer in honor of their bravery.
Benjamin Rhatigan is now closer to his other grandfather, his "zayde," since writing his piece as a junior in high school. Benjamin is a college sophomore studying English and international relations. He enjoys reading and writing short stories. He dedicates his essay to his former English teacher, Faith B. Krinsky, who was his guiding light through high school and who helped him find himself.
Jarod Rhoades wrote his fiction piece as a senior in high school,where he acted and directed many drama productions. He also compiled and edited a collection of short stories, poems and essays by young writers. Jarod's greatest influences include Faulkner, Joyce, Steinbeck and Nabokov. He is a college sophomore majoring in geological sciences. In addition to his short story work, he is writing a novel.
Caroline Richards graduated from college with a degree in economics and women's studies. She works as a researcher at a consulting company, and is considering a future career in publishing, editing or economic policy research. She enjoys running, Rollerblading, waterskiing and reading. Caroline's poem was originally published in Teen Ink Magazine during her junior year in high school.
Jacqueline Savage recently received her master's in social work and now works with a domestic violence intervention program. Her desire to help children developed after spending summers at her parents' camp. Writing poetry and fiction remains her passion. She thanks her dad, mom and brother, Rob, who nurtured her confidence, enabling her to submit her personal piece as a high school freshman. She also thanks Ben, whose love and widom are a constant support.
Adrienne Scheibel wrote her fiction piece as a junior in high school. She graduated from college with a degree in psychology and education and she is a second-grade teacher. She enjoys traveling, making scrapbooks and reading. After college graduation, Adrienne and her roommate drove across country in three days. For the next year, they spent their free time learning country dancing and preparing to become teachers.
Lisa Schottenfeld is a senior in high school. She has performed in many of her school theater productions and volunteers as assistant director for her temple's drama club. She is editor-in-chief of the newspaper and literary magazine, sings in the school chorus, and participates in a student-run debate group. Her passion is Shakespeare. Lisa dedicates her poem to "students everywhere who refuse to fit themselves into the mold."
Christopher Scinta wrote his poignant piece as a senior in high school. The character of Kayla is a conglomeration of every close friend he has had, and the story was inspired by a friendship he had many years ago. Christopher is a college sophomore studying ethics, society and law. He enjoys photography, music and sports, and is a soloist for his church choir. He and a friend recently completed a screenplay.
Jessica Seifried is a college sophomore studying international affairs, political science and English. She is active in community service and enjoys writing, biking, Rollerblading and swimming. She wrote her essay as a junior in high school. She dedicates it to her dad, and thanks her mom, brother Michael, Nana, Aunt Kathy, Uncle Bob and best friend Sally. She also thanks her teachers who have helped her along the way.
Charlie Semine is a college sophomore majoring in theater with minors in English and Italian. He recently participated in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts for the summer. Charlie took the photo of his younger sister during his sophomore year in high school for a photography class assignment entitled "shadows." He is a member of his college's only improv comedy troupe, and plays the sax and sings.
Maliha Shaikh is a freshman in college. She is an avid reader and enjoys horseback riding and kung fu. She has lived in Pakistan, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the United States. She is passionate about travel, recently indulging her love of history with trips to Italy and Egypt. Her most memorable experience was the Muslim pilgrimmage, Haj, which she performed earlier this year. Maliha wrote her essay as a senior.
Aaron Shield, receiving his degree in Italian studies, works as project manager in Romance languages at a translation company. During college, Aaron studied French, Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew and Italian. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. in linguistics, and hopes to teach and do field research. Aaron's introspective piece was originally published when he was a high school sophomore.
Stephen Siperstein is a junior in high school and a musician "to the core." He has been playing the guitar and piano for years, and has even taught children how to play. Photography is a fairly new avocation for Stephen, although he has already had an exhibition in his hometown.
Amy Spota is a student at a fashion institute majoring in illustration. She created her ballerina during her junior year in high school as part of an assignment in scratchboard. She has studied dance, including ballet, and likes the lights and darks of her piece. Amy hopes to design children's books someday.
Kate Staples is a junior in college studying physical therapy. She loves helping people, and worked at a nursing home for three years during high school. Her interest in physical therapy was also inspired by her mother, who is a nurse. Kate enjoys writing, skiing, and playing lacrosse and tennis. She dedicates her essay, first published when she was a senior in high school, to the memory of her grandparents.
Gina Nicole Statuto wrote her piece when she was a high school junior. As a college sophomore studying political science and criminal justice, she hopes to pursue a law degree. She is an avid reader, loves the theater and opera, and enjoys training exotic birds. She has been competing in horse shows for five years, and even owns her own horse. Her fictionalized piece is dedicated to her loving father, who will always be there on her course through life.
Kaidi Stroud is a college sophomore studying English and creative writing. She wants to pursue a master's in secondary education. In high school, she was captain of the track and cross country teams, and was involved with the newspaper and yearbook. She is now a member of her college club lacrosse and track teams. Kaidi's poem was first published during her senior year in high school. She still writes poetry.
Cassandra Stuart wrote her essay while a high school senior. As a sophomore in college studying government, film/television and journalism, she enjoys running, writing, traveling, public speaking, cooking and participating in a variety of outdoor and community service activities. Cassie is a varsity rower and ice cream scooper extraordinaire, and has traveled to England, Spain and Japan.
Cassandra Summerill is in the ninth grade. She wrote her reminiscence of her hero while in the seventh grade. She is a member of her school's basketball team and yearbook committee. She volunteers for a local no-kill animal shelter, helping to collect funds and supplies. A local newspaper even featured a story about her and her work there. Cassie and her family love animals. They have three dogs, a cat, six birds, a rabbit, a hamster and some ducks!
Jessika Teegarden works as a licensed massage therapist and chiropractor's assistant. She enjoys spending time at the beach, Rollerblading, playing the piano and guitar, drawing and writing. Jessika has been married to her husband, Aaron, for five years. Her poem was originally published during her senior year in high school.
Andrea Trask is a college sophomore. She works as a resident assistant and enjoys theater, writing, playing softball and singing. She is a member of the drama club, and is a charter member of both the Yo-Yo club and medieval history club. Andrea has spent her summers working at the YMCA and as an ITS consultant for her college. Her piece about Sheldon's death, which impacted her whole community, was first published when she was a high school sophomore.
Anna Tudor was a sophomore in high school when her poem, which was inspired by an experience she had when she was eleven, was published in Teen Ink Magazine. As a senior, she is active in student government and drama, and plays the French horn in the school band. Anna spent this summer taking college courses in philosophy, film and international relations, and traveling in Spain with her family.
Lauren Vose is a college sophomore active in drama production. She has even founded a tap group, capitalizing on her life-long love of dance. A public policy major, she taught a course on date rape at her college and spent a summer volunteering in Honduras working for a social service organization. She wrote her piece as a junior in high school when the whole school was devastated by the death of a classmate.
Heather M. Walker wrote her poem as a high school sophomore. She combined details of her own past into Mystery's character, leaving the rest to fiction. Being published many times in Teen Ink Magazine remains one of her favorite accomplishments. Besides writing poetry, Heather enjoys painting, playing the pan flute and free-form dancing. She also adores nature walks, swimming in rivers and lakes, and all creative endeavors.
Greg Walters and his girlfriend are still happily together, having celebrated their second anniversary last spring. Greg is a freshman in college majoring in business. He enjoys all sports, especially water sports, and is active with his church. In high school, he was president of the National Honor Society, vice-president of the Honor Choir, and the announcer for his school's football games. He wrote his essay as a senior.
Kathleen Waters, a high school junior, is a member of the archery team, which has taught her patience, and the art club, which has taught her to appreciate beauty. She enjoys photography and volunteers her time with special education students. Katie thanks her English teacher, John Dillon, for encouraging and believing in her. She dedicates her piece to her mom, who has sacrificed her life to help others.
April Weber wrote her essay as a junior in high school. She is now a college junior studying studio art and education, and dreams of becoming an interior designer in the future. During vacations, she works as a teacher at her high school and spends summers in the Adirondacks. Although she and her friend attend schools in different states, they remain close. April will always care about her, and she knows her friend feels the same way.
Margaret Wetherell wrote her personal piece as a sophomore in high school. She studied computer science in college and works as a hardware engineer. In her free time, she enjoys reading and Rollerblading. She dedicates her essay to her mother, Ruth, who has since greatly improved and is now doing well. Margaret appreciates the changes her mother has made that have enabled their family to become closer.
Whitney Wiggin decided to spread her wings and attend college in a completely different part of the country, which has been an interesting experience. She loves traveling and the outdoors, and enjoys boating, skiing, running and flying. A junior, she is majoring in communications and public affairs. Whit took her photo for fun as a senior in high school, where she also volunteered at a Spanish-speaking elementary school.
Laura Yilmaz is a freshman in college considering a major in East Asian studies. She is extremely active in the theater and has worked as the costume designer, set designer and make-up chief for her high school drama club. She loves art, and especially enjoys drawing in pencil. Laura's essay was originally published in Teen Ink Magazine during her junior year in high school. She dedicates it to her sister.
Back to Top
| 
|
|
 |
